Butterscotch Bars by Trisha Yearwood

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Rich, golden, and irresistibly gooey, these Butterscotch Bars by Trisha Yearwood are the kind of treat that makes dessert lovers swoon. With their buttery base and decadent caramelized topping, they strike the perfect balance between chewy and moist, making each bite melt in your mouth.

What sets these bars apart is the deep flavor profile from brown sugar and butter working in perfect harmony. Whether you’re baking a quick weeknight dessert or prepping for a special occasion, these butterscotch bars deliver Southern charm with every bite.


Why You’ll Love This Butterscotch Bars Recipe

These bars aren’t just delicious—they’re downright addictive. The soft, cake-like texture layered with a luscious butterscotch glaze makes for a sweet treat that never feels too heavy.

They come together with pantry staples and minimal prep, so you can whip up a batch even on busy days. Ideal for potlucks, family gatherings, or just a cozy weekend at home, these bars will have everyone asking for seconds.


What Kind of Butterscotch Flavor Should I Expect?

Unlike artificial-tasting versions, this recipe uses real butter and brown sugar to create an authentic, homemade butterscotch glaze. The topping is warm and nutty, with caramel notes and just a hint of saltiness to keep it from becoming overly sweet. Perfect for those who love a classic dessert with a gourmet finish.


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Ingredients for the Butterscotch Bars by Trisha Yearwood

To get that luscious flavor and chewy texture just right, each ingredient in these butterscotch bars plays an important role.

  • All-Purpose Flour – This forms the base structure of the bars, providing a tender crumb without being too cakey.
  • Baking Powder – Helps the bars rise and stay light and fluffy.
  • Salt – Just a touch balances out the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
  • Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and depth. Using unsalted lets you control the salt levels better.
  • Light Brown Sugar – The star of the show. It creates that signature butterscotch taste and gives the bars their golden hue.
  • Eggs – Bind everything together while adding a bit of richness.
  • Vanilla Extract – Enhances the butterscotch notes and adds warmth to the overall flavor.
  • Chopped Pecans or Walnuts (optional) – Adds crunch and a nutty contrast to the gooey top.

How To Make the Butterscotch Bars by Trisha Yearwood

This recipe is simple, straightforward, and bakes up beautifully every time. Here’s how to bring these bars to life.

Step 1: Preheat and Prep the Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set this mixture aside.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and light brown sugar until the mixture is fluffy and light. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes with an electric mixer.

Step 4: Add the Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add the vanilla extract. Mix until everything is well incorporated.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry

Slowly add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 6: Add Nuts (Optional)

If you’re using chopped nuts, fold them into the batter at this stage.

Step 7: Bake

Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Make the Butterscotch Glaze

While the bars are baking, make the glaze by melting butter and brown sugar together in a saucepan. Bring to a gentle boil, then remove from heat. Stir in vanilla and a touch of cream if desired.

Step 9: Glaze and Cool

Pour the warm glaze over the freshly baked bars while they’re still hot. Let everything cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares.


How to Serve and Store Butterscotch Bars

These bars are best served once they’ve fully cooled and the glaze has set. For a classic presentation, cut them into neat squares and serve on a dessert tray or platter. They’re excellent both at room temperature and chilled from the fridge—the texture becomes slightly fudgier when cold.

This recipe makes about 24 bars, depending on how large you slice them, making it a great choice for potlucks, school events, or any sweet-tooth emergency.

To store, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week. You can also freeze them (without glaze) for up to 2 months. Simply thaw and glaze before serving.


What to Serve With Butterscotch Bars?

These bars shine solo but can be even better with the right pairing. Here are some delicious ideas to complement your dessert:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream

The creamy coolness of vanilla ice cream balances the rich butterscotch flavor perfectly.

2. Fresh Berries

Serve with raspberries or sliced strawberries for a fruity contrast.

3. Coffee or Espresso

Their sweetness pairs beautifully with the bitterness of a strong cup of coffee.

4. Whipped Cream

Add a dollop of homemade whipped cream to turn them into a plated dessert.

5. Salted Caramel Drizzle

Boost the decadence with an extra drizzle of salted caramel.

6. Chopped Toasted Nuts

Sprinkle extra toasted pecans or walnuts on top for crunch and flavor.

7. Warm Milk

A nostalgic pairing for a cozy evening treat.

8. A Scoop of Greek Yogurt

For a tangy, creamy bite that adds balance and makes it feel a touch healthier!


Want More Bar Dessert Ideas?

If you’re loving these Butterscotch Bars by Trisha Yearwood, you’ll definitely want to check out these other irresistible dessert bars and treats:


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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go with pecans or walnuts? Did you serve it warm with ice cream, or keep it classic?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other bake smarter.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks, comforting meals, and daily dessert inspiration on NoraNosh Recipes on Pinterest.


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Butterscotch Bars by Trisha Yearwood

Butterscotch Bars by Trisha Yearwood


  • Author: Nora
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 24 bars
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

These Butterscotch Bars by Trisha Yearwood are pure indulgence—gooey, rich, and packed with comforting flavor. The soft, buttery base and glossy butterscotch glaze make this treat perfect for anyone craving a cozy homemade dessert. Whether you’re hosting a potluck or looking for easy dessert ideas, these bars are ideal for quick baking and guaranteed crowd-pleasers. Their classic ingredients and warm flavor profile also make them perfect for breakfast ideas, late-night snacks, or serving at dinner parties.


Ingredients

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

2 teaspoons baking powder

½ teaspoon salt

½ cup unsalted butter (softened)

2 cups light brown sugar (packed)

2 large eggs

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

½ cup unsalted butter

1 cup light brown sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

2 tablespoons heavy cream (optional)


Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.

2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

3. In a large mixing bowl, beat softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.

4. Add eggs one at a time, beating after each, then stir in vanilla extract.

5. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet, mixing until just combined.

6. Fold in chopped nuts if using.

7. Spread the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

8. While bars bake, prepare the glaze: melt butter and brown sugar in a saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a gentle boil, then remove from heat and stir in vanilla and cream.

9. Pour the glaze over the bars while still hot. Cool completely in the pan before slicing.

Notes

For a richer glaze, use heavy cream instead of milk.

To make cutting easier, chill the bars in the fridge for 15–20 minutes before slicing.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bar
  • Calories: 235
  • Sugar: 20g
  • Sodium: 95mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 40mg

Keywords: Butterscotch bars, easy dessert, Southern desserts, Trisha Yearwood recipes, quick sweet bar

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